Belfast shoegaze band Virgins | New single release

Belfast based shoegaze/dream pop band Virgins release new single b l o o m s ahead of Irish tour and the headlining the Blowtorch Records showcase

Track: b l o o m s

Band: Virgins

Released: April 3 2025

Virgins have released new single b l o o m s, their first new material since last year's debut album nothing hurt and everything was beautiful (plus associated single gliss).

The euphoria inducing crescendo of fuzz and siren vocals releases the pressure valve of tension cultivated throughout the track

On b l o o m s, the band redefine their sound while exploring new emotional depths and expanding their sound arsenal. Shimmering verses explode into swirling choruses, accented by reverse delays and glide guitar. The euphoria inducing crescendo of fuzz and siren vocals releases the pressure valve of tension cultivated throughout the track.

Michael Smyth from the band reveals: "b l o o m s takes steps toward redefining the band's sound. Having explored out and out euphoria on the album I wanted to wander into a different sonic territory and play with darker dynamics. The catharsis achieved at the end comes only after a palpable sense of tension is cultivated in the first half. I definitely see shoegaze songs as colours and this is all swirling dark purples. Lyrically, the song takes a much more literal approach than the lyrics I wrote on the album. I'm being very direct here. It's about reflecting on things and knowing that what you're doing is right, finding the confidence in your approach and decisions. Following your internal north star."

The band worked with acclaimed producer Simon Francis (Kylie Minogue, Ellie Goulding, The Japanese House) to capture the track and for mastering turned to one of shoegaze greats Simon Scott of Slowdive. Virgins trade mark sound doesn't rely on genre tropes but brings a contemporary take to shoegaze, as walls of gargantuan fuzz, euphoric shimmering guitar leads and ethereal vocals guide the listener through the hazy sanctuary.

Tour dates

April 10 Belfast Empire Single launch/headline

May 1 Galway Róisín Dubh (Blowtorch Showcase headline)

May 2 Limerick Pharmacia

May 3 Dublin Sound House

May 9 Dundalk Spirit Store

August 29 Dublin - GazeFest (Whitelands headlining)

August 30 Belfast - GazeFest (Whitelands headlining)

The only way to get b l o o m s on a physical format is on our Blowtorch Showcase compilation LP - CD and vinyl versions available

Blowtorch showcase compilation vinyl LP 'A Right Result'

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CD of Blowtorch showcase compilation 'A Right Result'